The Indian Institute of Craft and Design (IICD) is a prestigious institution in India dedicated to craft-based design education, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design practices. Every year, thousands of aspiring designers compete for limited seats through the IICD Entrance Exam, which assesses creativity, material knowledge, and design thinking. If you are preparing for IICD 2025, this comprehensive guide will provide you with insights into the exam pattern, eligibility, preparation tips, syllabus, important dates, and much more to ensure your success.
About IICD Entrance Exam 2025
The IICD Entrance Exam is conducted to admit students into various undergraduate and postgraduate design programs specializing in Craft Communication, Soft Material Design, Hard Material Design, Fired Material Design, and more. This exam is structured to test a candidate’s:
- Creativity and Innovation
- Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills
- Knowledge of Traditional and Contemporary Crafts
- Material Handling and Design Aptitude
Courses Offered at IICD
IICD offers diverse undergraduate (B.Des) and postgraduate (M.Des) programs catering to design enthusiasts with an interest in India’s rich craft heritage:
Undergraduate Courses (B.Des – 4 years)
- Soft Material Design – Focuses on textiles, leather, natural fibers, and fabric-based crafts.
- Hard Material Design – Includes wood, metal, jewelry, and structural craftwork.
- Fired Material Design – Covers pottery, ceramics, and glass-based crafts.
- Craft Communication – Integrates visual storytelling, digital communication, and branding for crafts.
Postgraduate Courses (M.Des – 2 years)
- Advanced study in any of the above-mentioned specializations, focusing on innovation and leadership in the craft and design industry.
Integrated M.Des Program (5 years)
- A combination of undergraduate and postgraduate study for students who wish to develop an extensive design background from the start.
IICD 2025 Entrance Exam Pattern
The IICD entrance exam consists of three key evaluation stages:
1. Part A – General Awareness, Creativity & Perception Test
- Tests a candidate’s observational skills, design thinking, and logical reasoning.
- Includes questions on craft history, cultural awareness, and basic design principles.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Mode: Offline/Online (as per notification)
2. Part B – Material, Color & Conceptual Test
- A practical hands-on test that evaluates a candidate’s ability to work with materials and colors.
- Applicants are given specific tasks to assess their innovation, problem-solving, and execution skills.
- Skills Tested: Material handling, color combination, composition, and form development.
3. Part C – Personal Interview & Portfolio Review
- Candidates who clear Parts A & B are shortlisted for a personal interview.
- A portfolio review may be required, showcasing previous work in design, crafts, or related fields.
- Focuses on assessing creativity, communication skills, and passion for craft-based design.
IICD 2025 Eligibility Criteria
For B.Des Applicants:
- Must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards, NIOS, etc.).
- Candidates appearing for their 12th exams in 2025 are also eligible.
For M.Des Applicants:
- Must hold a graduate degree in Design, Architecture, Fine Arts, or related disciplines.
- Final-year students can also apply, provided they complete their degree before admission.
How to Apply for IICD 2025
- Online Registration: Visit the official IICD website and fill out the application form with accurate details.
- Upload Required Documents: Scanned copies of mark sheets, passport-sized photo, and ID proof.
- Application Fee Payment: Fees vary by category and are non-refundable.
- Download Admit Card: Once registered, candidates can download their admit card for the entrance exam.
IICD 2025 Syllabus Breakdown
1. General Awareness, Creativity & Perception Test (Part A)
- Indian and Global Craft Traditions
- Art Movements and Design Principles
- Logical & Analytical Reasoning
- General Awareness about Art, Culture, and Sustainability
- Observation-based Questions
2. Material, Color & Conceptual Test (Part B)
- Hands-on Craft-Based Exercises
- Color Theory & Application
- Composition and Form Development
- 3D Model Making with Craft Materials
- Visualization & Rendering Skills
3. Personal Interview & Portfolio Review (Part C)
- Discussion on Aspirations and Design Thinking
- Portfolio Evaluation (Sketches, Paintings, Craft Work, Digital Designs, etc.)
- Awareness of Traditional and Modern Craft Practices
| Section | Topics Covered | Weightage |
| General Awareness & Creativity Test | Logical reasoning, visual perception, craft knowledge | 40% |
| Material Handling & Conceptual Understanding | Working with materials, 3D visualization | 40% |
| Personal Interview & Portfolio Review | Presentation skills, portfolio evaluation | 20% |
Key Preparation Tips for IICD 2025
- Enhance Creativity – Engage in sketching, painting, and craft projects regularly.
- Study Traditional Indian Crafts – Research different craft forms like Madhubani, Kalamkari, and Pattachitra.
- Practice Material Handling – Experiment with clay, fabric, paper, and other materials.
- Develop a Strong Portfolio – Include drawings, handmade models, and digital designs.
- Mock Tests & Past Papers – Solve previous year’s question papers to understand the pattern.
- Improve Storytelling Skills – Learn to articulate your design ideas effectively.
IICD 2025 Exam Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Expected Date |
| Application Start | December 2024 |
| Application Deadline | March 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | April 2025 |
| Exam Date | April 2025 |
| Result Declaration | May 2025 |
| Personal Interview | June 2025 |
| Final Merit List | July 2025 |
Why Choose IICD?
- Unique Craft-Based Curriculum integrating contemporary design thinking with heritage crafts.
- Experiential Learning Approach with practical studio work and hands-on projects.
- Industry Exposure & Internships with top design firms and craft clusters.
- Strong Alumni Network providing mentorship and career opportunities in the design sector.
- Global Outreach & Cultural Exchange Programs giving exposure to international design trends.
Career Opportunities After IICD
Graduates from IICD have numerous career paths, including:
- Craft Designer – Creating innovative craft-based products.
- Textile Designer – Working with fabrics and patterns.
- Sustainable Designer – Integrating eco-friendly practices into design.
- Entrepreneur – Starting their own craft-based business or design studio.
- Design Consultant – Advising brands and organizations on craft integration.
Conclusion
The IICD Entrance Exam is your gateway to an exciting career in craft and design, where tradition meets innovation. By preparing diligently and focusing on creativity, material handling, and design thinking, you can secure a seat at one of India’s leading craft-design institutions. Start early, practice consistently, and stay updated with key exam dates to maximize your chances of success in IICD 2025!
For further updates, visit the official IICD website and stay informed about the latest notifications.